Valparaiso, Chile—Study Abroad

Valparaíso (pop. 284,000), and Viña del Mar (pop. 285,000) are sister cities located halfway down Chile's endless coastline and sixty-eight miles northwest of Santiago. A city of seafaring traditions and grand hilltop views, Valparaíso was once home to the famous Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. Valparaíso also functions as the primary commercial harbor, naval base, and seat of political power for the country, which creates a unique and modern dynamic in a city with roots in the colonial past. Together, Valparaíso and Viña del Mar offer something for each visitor, including spectacular beaches, museums, and architecture.

The Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso (PUCV) was founded in 1928 and is one of the most prestigious institutions of the Chilean higher educational system. With an enrollment of over 13,000 students, the university hosts around 250 international students each semester. Although the PUCV's academic facilities are located in both Valparaíso and Viña del Mar, its main complex is located on the northern edge of Valparaíso across the street from the ISA office. This complex houses administrative offices, classrooms, laboratories, libraries and computer and audio-visual facilities. All international students will have orientation sessions at the university at the start of the semester to finalize course selections. Study abroad students also have access to tutoring, computer, sports and recreation facilities. ISA participants may also participate in the various workshops and organizations that the Pontifical Catholic University offers.

At A Glance

Program Duration

Fall: late July–late NovSpring: late Feb–early JulySummer: mid May-late June

Classroom Language

English and Spanish

Eligibility

Open to Michigan Tech degree -seeking, non-freshman students

Minimum 2.75 Cumulative GPA

Housing

Homestay, pension, and independent housing

Cost

Michigan Tech tuition (based on resident or nonresident)

$350 study abroad registration fee; plus airfare, etc.

Our Application Deadline

Fall—April 1Spring—October 15Summer—March 1

Please note that the university you are applying to may have different application deadlines.